Sea Star parent orders 2 $350M eco-friendly cargo ships

The double-hulled ships, to be built in Southern California, will operate between Jacksonville and San Juan starting in 2015 and 2016.

New Jersey-based TOTE Inc. has contracted General Dynamics NASSCO to design and build two 764-foot TEU liquefied natural gas-powered containerships to serve the Puerto Rico maritime trade route, with options for three more vessels for additional domestic service, the companies announced Tuesday.

The double-hulled ships, to be built in Southern California, will operate between Jacksonville and San Juan starting in 2015 and 2016.

The agreement with General Dynamics NASSCO represents a “major technological milestone in international shipping,” the companies said. The total capital committed to the project is more than $350 million.

“This investment demonstrates our commitment to the people of Puerto Rico and our environment,” TOTE President Anthony Chiarello said. “These vessels mark a new age of shipping using the best technology in the world.”

The new ship design accommodates five times more 53-foot containers than current ships serving Puerto Rico and will allow for the transport of “everything from cars to corn syrup.”

“This investment demonstrates our commitment to the people of Puerto Rico and our environment,” said Anthony Chiarello, President of TOTE Inc. “These vessels mark a new age of shipping using the best technology in the world.”

The ships will include expanded volumes for refrigeration equipment, critical to ensure that pharmaceuticals, produce and other foodstuffs vital to the residents of Puerto Rico are delivered in the best possible condition. Maritime shipping trade to the island is an essential part of sustained economic development.

TOTE Inc. is the parent company of TOTE Shipholdings Inc., Totem Ocean Trailer Express and Sea Star Line, which provide regular marine transportation for general cargo between the continental United States and Alaska and Puerto Rico.